Stakeholder perspectives on climate change and adaptation in expedition cruise tourism in Nunavut

Abstract

Climate change and tourism change are global phenomena (Keskitalo, 2008; Page, 2003). As climate change becomes more pronounced and the tourism industry continues to be susceptible to changes in climate (Coombes, Jones, & Sutherland, 2009), understanding the tourism industry’s vulnerabilities and potential adaptive strategies become imperative (Keskitalo, 2008). This dynamic relationship between the tourism industry and climate change is important as the changes occurring are interpreted and responded to in various ways depending on the emphasis put on change by the broad decision making networks that are characteristic of multi-level governing systems (Keskitalo, 2008). One of the jurisdictions where the tourism industry is likely to be vulnerable and require adaptation to the climate change-tourism relationship is in the Territory of Nunavut in Canada’s Arctic. Nunavut’s tourism industry is influenced by vulnerabilities and opportunities that are particular to the Arctic (Loverseed, 2008; Milne, 2006); these influences require Arctic specific responses, innovations and adaptations. Arctic specific adaptations are facilitated by the stakeholders involved in the management of Nunavut’s tourism industry. On an ongoing basis, Arctic stakeholders have to address current and predicted vulnerabilities and opportunities; these need to be addressed in such a way that the political, economic, social, and ecological systems of the region are able to cope with and recover from various stresses. Through coping with and recovering from stress the Territory can maintain or enhance its capabilities and assets, and ensure that opportunities are available for future generations (Armitage, 2007).